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I do not want to suggest that utilitarianism and Kantian…

“I do not want to suggest that utilitarianism and Kantian deontology are incorrect as moral theories just because they were founded by men who may have had Asperger’s syndrome. That would be an ad hominem argument, a logical error, and a mean thing to say.” quote by Jonathan Haidt
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““I do not want to suggest that utilitarianism and Kantian deontology are incorrect as moral theories just because they were founded by men who may have had Asperger’s syndrome. That would be an ad hominem argument, a logical error, and a mean thing to say.””

Jonathan Haidt

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote warns against dismissing moral theories because of the personal traits of their creators, labeling such dismissal as an ad hominem logical fallacy.

In simple terms: Don’t reject ideas just because of who made them.

Key Takeaway

Focus on arguments, not personal traits.

Themes

ethics logic psychology

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • debates on moral philosophy
  • academic discussions
  • public policy formation

Key Concepts

ad hominem logical fallacy theory evaluation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure critiques target ideas, not individuals?
  • What safeguards prevent personal bias in ethical debates?
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